McGuigan Expects Tough Test For Frampton With Molitor

As previously reported last week on BoxingScene.com, Carl Frampton will face Canadian Steve Molitor in Belfast on September 22 after European super bantamweight champion Kiko Martinez withdrew from the fight through injury.

Two-time world champion Molitor will challenge Belfast boxer Frampton for his Commonwealth and IBF International titles at the Odyssey Arena.

"This is a much tougher fight for Carl," said his manager Barry McGuigan.

"But it's the kind of fight we want him to be in," added the ex-world champion.

The news of the Spaniard's withdrawal led to a search for a new opponent, which culminated in the announcement that the classy Molitor would be coming to Belfast.

Molitor first held the IBF belt in 2006 after beating Michael Hunter in the UK and successfully defended it five times before regaining it in 2010.

The 32-year-old has fought four times in the UK, with wins over Hunter, John Mackay, Nicky Booth and Jason Booth and he has promised an explosive night when he crosses the Atlantic to lock horns with Frampton.

"I love fighting across the pond," said Molitor. "I've won four from four over there and plan on retaining that perfect record.

"I am excited about fighting Frampton - although he is not a household name amongst the rest in my division, he is recognised as a future star.

"Although I am coming in off of Martinez stepping out, I have been training like a mad man for several months - I am not hungry, I am starving.

"Eddie Hearn (promoter), Barry McGuigan and Frampton, you have all the respect in the world from me - stepping up against me as a two time IBF Champion of the World takes courage."

McGuigan welcomed the news that Molitor stepped in for the fight and believes that the Canadian could be an even more dangerous proposition for his hot prospect:

"Steve has boxed at a higher level than Kiko - we could've looked further down the list of opponents and taken an easier fight but Carl wants to operate at world level and Molitor is certainly there.

Molitor is a step up and he has boxed at a higher level? Molitor's big chance was years ago when he fought pelechin at rama. The fight was not competitive and an embarassment for all canadians. Molitor offers no power,engagement,or…